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Mental /Behavioral Health

Reunion supports mental health

The Vernon Secondary School class of 1987 came together for its 30-year high school reunion and raised more than $700 in honour of Michael Schratter, founder of the Ride Don't Hide movement.

Schratter, who is part of the grad class, created the ride to raise awareness of mental health, reduce the discrimination and stigma around mental illness and raise funds to benefit local programs and services.

"We are all so moved by Mike's story, both his personal journey and for the community as well. What a powerful mark to make in the world, to start a national movement for mental health." said Sheri Minard, reunion committee member.

"We wanted to support our classmate with this donation and honour the great work he has done to improve mental health not only for us in Vernon but for everyone across Canada."

Schratter's family and friends have taken up the cause, locally organizing the Vernon Ride Don't Hide for the past five years and raising more than $130,000 for the Canadian Mental Health Association.

"It is inspiring to see spontaneous community support with events like this one that not only raise funds for critical community services but also work to break down the stigma surrounding mental health," said Julia Payson, CMHA Vernon executive director.

Ride Don't Hide will be held June 24, 2018. For information, visit www.vernon.cmha.bc.ca or call 250-542-3114.